The recall directed at Mayor Will Flanagan goes far beyond any disagreement with the positions he has taken on issues affecting the city of Fall River.

The constant bashing and bickering coming from some city councilors and others is both divisive and painful to watch. Listening to the negative tone of some of the petitioners, one can see the malicious ill will directed personally at the mayor and others serving in his is administration.

Through it all, Flanagan has remained above the fray and stays focused on the work he was elected to do. Our city is moving in the right direction and Flanagan remains committed to fight for a better Fall River.

The current recall process is flawed and needs to be changed. And to those petitioners attempting to defeat the mayor through this process I offer a word of advice. Try doing it the time-honored and old fashioned way: at the ballot box.